A new network is providing a voice for the design community in Huddersfield.

Wilson’s Republic – taking its name from former prime minister Harold Wilson – met at the town’s historic Byram Arcade where designers and creatives from across the region gathered to hear talks and insight from some of the industry’s talented practitioners.

The network aims to provide a voice for the design community in Huddersfield – bringing together designers, illustrators, photographers, artists and other creatives to share ideas, swap experiences and raise the profile of design across the town.

The event, which attracted more than 90 local creatives, heard talks from Holmfirth-based graphic artist Anna Mullin and illustrator Peter O’Toole, based at Bates Mill in Huddersfield.

Ms Mullin has recently moved to the Holme Valley from London and recalled stories and experiences during her time working for such brands as Pandora, the BBC and Monsoon.

She also told of her love for animals from which her alter-ego name “Sneaky Racoon” was born.

Mr O’Toole, one of the more recognised names to come out of Huddersfield’s design sector, gave guests an insight into his early work, his experiments with new-found techniques and presented more recent work for Adidas and Clarks Originals which included a commission to design his own marque of trainer.

Holmfirth-based graphic artist Anna Mullin speaking at the Wilson's Republic design network event

Darren Evans, founder of Wson’s Republic and head of Huddersfield-based The Engine Room, said “Huddersfield contains a huge wealth of design talent that the town should be very proud of.

“Whilst the likes of Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield all have recognised design events and communities, the resounding feedback we’ve had so far is that a recognised design network for Huddersfield is well overdue.

“I believe, collectively, we have a big part to play in the future of the town and it was fitting that the event was hosted at the Byram Arcade which is seen by many as the independent heart of Huddersfield.

“We’ve set the bar high, so we’ll be working hard to ensure that future events are as good as this one and that we continue to support local creatives of all kinds.”

Go to www.wilsonsrepublic.com